Florida LB Darnavius "Dee" Finley appeared in an Alachua County Courtroom this morning and was released on his own recognizance after his arrest on Monday for driving with a suspended license and resisting a police officer with violence– a third degree felony.

During the court proceeding this morning, the Alachua County State Attorney's Office said that after consulation with the University Police Department, charges of resisting with violence would be reduced to resisting without violence, which is a misdemeanor.

Alachua County Judge Denise Ferrero ordered Finley not to drive any motor vehicle without a valid license and orderered his release.

“I am optimistic that this incident is going to get Mr. Finley’s attention to the point that we will not have this happen again,’’ his attorney Huntley Johnson said after the court proceeding.

According to a UPD police report, the sophomore from Alabama drove his scooter around a barricade near the football stadium and was pulled over by police. Finely did not comply with requests for his license and registration. Instead, he turned his scooter on and attempted to leave the scene, the report says.

A UPD police officer tried to stop him by grabbing his wrist, but Finley allegedly pushed the officer’s hand away. After being told a Taser would be used, he complied with the officer’s requests.

According to DMV records, Finley’s license is suspended for failure to pay multiple fines and attend court appearances. Finley is a reserve linebacker who has played in 16 games, including two this season.

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Florida Gators fans, welcome to the Gator Report for all your news about Gators football, basketball and all UF sports. It's written by University of Florida beat writer Antonya English and the staff of the Tampa Bay Times. We invite your comments and participation.